The 36-year-old mother from New South Wales, who dreams of opening a bed and breakfast in her home town of Orange, beat fellow finalist Michael Weldon in a three-part challenge to be crowned the winner of the cooking reality television show.

Before the verdict was announced, judge George Calombaris told Weldon and Bracks: "There's a certain element of electricity in the air right now and I want you guys to stop for one second to never forget this moment. It's moments like this in life that are wonderful."

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After Bracks was revealed as the victor, Matt Preston told her: "What a winner you are. You cooked magnificently today. We want to thank you for the commitment you've made because your development has been phenomenal. Kate, you are an absolute credit to yourself and your family."

She replied: "I feel like I could just faint, I'm a bit shaky. I've had every possible experience out of this MasterChef competition and I'm so incredibly grateful. Words can't explain how thankful I am for this. This is just incredible."

As well as the prestigious title of MasterChef 2011, Bracks will receive training in some of Australia's best restaurants, a book publishing deal and $100,000 (Â£64,000) in cash.

Gary Mehigan described Weldon as a "tremendously worth opponent for Kate" and praised him for being "studious" and "ambitious". He then offered Weldon a paid culinary scholarship in his Melbourne restaurant, together with $10,000 (Â£6,400) to cover living expenses.